The kids are off this week in many districts on Long Island…which means you have no excuse not to bring them to work with you on Thursday (if your boss is okay with it)!

It doesn’t matter whether your child wants to follow in your footsteps or take a completely different career path. The day is about spending some special time with your child, showing them where you work and with whom, how you get there, and what you do all day.

It lets them see you in action…the good, the bad, and the ugly. They may see you collaborate on a team project, lose a big account, or hunt down the thief who stole your lunch from the fridge yesterday. There are lessons to be learned in office diplomacy and hierarchy. Show them you have pride in your work and respect for all your co-workers, from the mailroom to the executive suite and everywhere in between.Set an example they can follow someday.

Tips for a Successful Bring Your Child to Work Day:

• Have them dress appropriately.
• Make them put the cell phone away.
• Introduce them to your co-workers and the boss.
• Get them involved in your work.
• Give them an interesting or fun task to accomplish.
• Give them a tour.
• Take them out to lunch.
• Ask their opinion on a project.
• Have them thank your boss for letting them come in.
• Ask what they liked best (and least) about your job or the overall experience.

Use the commute home to discuss what your child might like to be when s/he grows up. If s/he has a career idea, talk about what skills, training, or education the job requires. Encourage your child by pointing out which of the required skills s/he has an aptitude or passion for already.

Bring Your Son or Daughter to Work Day can be an annual tradition or just a once-in-a-lifetime chance to make a special memory with your kid. Just be sure to tell Junior that those special nicknames you call your supervisor at home are just between the two of you.